Minister Rishad Bathiudeen says that if proven that he’s connected to the illegal settlements in the Wilpattu national park, he will resign from politics.

The minister made the statement at a media briefing held in Colombo today in response to a statement made by Ven. Paahiyangala Ananda Sagara thera of the National Sangha Council.

Environmental activists of the National Sangha Council engaged in a demonstration on the 19threquesting that the government take necessary steps to end deforestation immediately.

During the event the secretary of the National Sangha Council. Ven. Ananda Sagara accused the Minister of being a main counterpart responsible for deforestation as well as drug trafficking.

Minister of industry and commerce, Rishad Bathiyudeen immediately filed a complaint with the cinnamon gardens Police station requesting an investigation to be conducted in to the alleged accusations demanding a compensation of 1 billion rupees from the thero.

Meanwhile, the secretary of the National Sangha Council Ven.

Ananda Sagara noted that he is ready to pay a compensation of 1 billion rupees to Minister Bathiyudeen under certain terms and conditions.

The thero made this statement yesterday in response to the complaint previously made at the cinnamon gardens Police station by the minister.